Celtics preseason schedule announced

After a swing through Europe, the Celtics will return to the United States for six exhibition games, according to the schedule released today.

Mike McDermott

After a swing through Europe, the Celtics will return to the United States for six exhibition games, according to the schedule released today.

As had previously been announced, the Celtics open exhibition play Oct. 5 in Istanbul against Fenerbahce Ulker. They then face EA7 Emporio Armani Milano in Milan on Oct. 7. The games are part of NBA Europe Live 2012, which also includes the Dallas Mavericks making preseason visits to Milan and Berlin.

Boston returns to action in the United States a week later by hosting the New York Knicks in Hartford, Conn. They'll play two preseason games on their regular home floor, at TD Garden.

Last season, the Celtics had planned to open the preseason at the Dunkin' Donuts Center, but the game did not happen because of the NBA labor dispute. Boston has not scheduled a make-up trip to Providence this season.

Boston opens the regular season at Miami on Oct. 30. The home opener is Nov. 2, against Milwaukee.

Preseason tickets will go on sale Sept. 13. All games, including those in Europe, will be televised on Comcast Sports New England.